Why am I unable to transfer files from computer to external hard drive?

I am unable to transfer files to an exteral hard drive, as the computer is not allowing me to drag the files across to either the icon on the desktop or in Finder - I have 3 different hard drives (including an Apple time capsule) and none of these is allowing transfer. I'm using version OS X 10.6.8. Any ideas?

Besides the TC, what format are the externals?
Fo a Get Info on the External drives, what rights do you have?

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